Multiple Family Group Therapy
Evaluation and Session Guide
1994 By Lewis N. Foster
The Evaluation and Session Guide (see links below to print a copy) is a tool designed to help the therapist and supervisor focus on the process of a multiple family group therapy (MFGT) session. It can be used as a guide by the therapist during a session, and supervisors can observe and check what they se the therapist do during the session.
Please know that, generally, it takes observing three MFGT sessions to get a "check" by each category on the list. That is why there are three boxes next to each category. Once completed, be sure to place the checklist in the training record folder. If you don't document it, it didn't happen. Use this form until you decide what changes are needed to tailor the guide to your needs. Then create and share it with me. My intent is to support you creating your own style of MFGT.
You will notice that the four stages of a MFGT session are listed in bold print. I have found the use of these stages helpful. In fact, I I use them during every MFGT session, with some changes as the session's progress. When starting a new MFTG it may take several ninety-minute sessions for the families to become comfortable enough to make themselves vulnerable with each other. Take the time to join well with the families. In the long run you'll have a more productive MFGT.
Open-ended MFGT's seem to therapist to work best, and they are a natural continuum of care from the beginning of treatment for the family to continuing care. I have discovered that when families are moved from one MFGT to another for continuing care, for example, about 80% never make the transition successfully.
When families remain in the same MFGT about 80% remain in treatment through continuing care. Remaining in a consistent and familiar MFTG where relationships with other families grow makes the difference. This is the natural continuum of care mentioned earlier. Having the same therapist is significant, but it is the families that will keep each other coming back. A telephone call by the therapist when families miss a session will help to keep them in the MFTG as well.
Handout #1 Evaluation and Session Guide page 1